CATS shares big plans for transit expansion

We’ve been talking a lot recently about the newly approved Silver Line alignment. Last week, Sustain Charlotte members heard more details about the 2030 Transit Plan from CATS CEO John Lewis and transit planner Jason Lawrence at our March Grow Smart CLT event.

Our Program Director Meg Fencil framed the evening’s presentation by reminding attendees that public transit access is one of the greatest equity issues. As Charlotte works to address systemic inequities in our community, public transit needs to be part of the conversation.

John Lewis spoke about the recent update to the bus network, as well as the need to continue making bold decisions to meet future ridership needs and build a regional transit system. Jason gave an overview of Charlotte’s growth and changing transit system, as well as going over highlights of future expansion plans. He shared the guiding principles of the 2030 Transit Plan, which are:

Establish reliabletransit to connect the region, enhance quality of life, and strengthen access to opportunities

Use transit to influence and shape growth while respecting community character

Increase mobility in each corridor through effective transit investments

Jason was able to share maps with the projected future light rail routes, and also discussed improvements to the bus network. View Jason’s whole presentation here.

After the presentation attendees had a chance to ask questions, and share their input on transit expansion by voting through our online poll.

Sustain Charlotte is fully behind the expansion of transit in Mecklenburg County, and the 2030 Transit Plan. We’re working closely with CATS staff, the City of Charlotte, and community members to improve access to safe transportation options. We’re looking forward to being a part of this process as it unfolds!

We were also thrilled to introduce our new Director of Development, David Samson, during the event. You can read more about David here!

Couldn’t make it out to the event? Check out the photos (Grant Baldwin Photography)!